HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance No. 219, 2025
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ORDINANCE NO. 219, 2025
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE V, DIVISION 1 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPEALING THE COLORADO PLUMBING
CODE AND ADOPTING THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, WITH
AMENDMENTS
A. Since 1924, the City has reviewed, amended and adopted the latest
nationally recognized building standards available for the times.
B. Upon recommendation of City staff, the City Council has determined that it
is in the best interests of the City to align eleven interconnected basic construction codes
under one publication year.
C. The eleven interconnected basic construction codes are the International
Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code,
International Fuel Gas Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International
Property Maintenance Code, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, International
Existing Building Code, International Plumbing Code, International Fire Code, and the
International Wildland-Urban Interface Code to the extent adopted by the Colorado
Wildfire Resiliency Code.
D. The City Council has determined that the 2024 publication year of these
interconnected basic construction codes should be adopted and that any counterpart
International codes previously adopted should be repealed, both in order to align the
publication years of the codes and because the 2024 publications contain improvem ents
in construction code regulation.
E. Previously, City Council adopted Ordinance No. 035, 2011, adopting the
Colorado Plumbing Code (the “CPC”) as published at 3 Colorado Code of Regulations
720-1, and codified the CPC at Section 5-125 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins, with
local amendments thereto.
F. The state’s code update cycle is significantly delayed compared to the
City’s, and the CPC has not yet been updated to align with the 2024 International
Plumbing Code.
G. The City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the health,
safety and welfare of the City and its residents that the plumbing code of the City of Fort
Collins be amended to adopt the 2024 International Plumbing Code and to repeal the
previously adopted Colorado Plumbing Code, both to align with the publication years o f
the other construction codes and to update the requirements pertaining to maximum flow
and water consumption.
H. City staff has conducted a significant public outreach program, working with
the regulated construction industry and building professionals.
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I. The adoption of the interconnected basic construction codes has been
presented to community groups and feedback has been received from the Water
Commission, Energy Board, Commission on Disability, Natural Resource Advisory Board,
Poudre Fire Authority Board, Building Review Commission, Affordable Housing Board,
and Air Quality Advisory Board.
J. Pursuant to the City Charter, Article II, Section 7, City Council may enact
any ordinance which adopts a code by reference in whole or in part provide d that before
adoption of such ordinance the Council hold a public hearing thereon and that notice of
the hearing shall be published twice in a newspaper of general circulation published in the
City, with one of such publications occurring at least eight (8) days preceding the hearing
and the other publication occurring at least fifteen (15) days preceding the hearing.
K. In compliance with City Charter, Article II, Section 7, the City Clerk published
in the Fort Collins Coloradoan such notice of hearing concerning adoption of the
2024 International Codes on November 16, 2025, and November 25, 2025.
L. Attached as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference is the Notice of
Public Hearing dated November 16, 2025, that was so published and which the Council
hereby finds meets the requirements of Article II, Section 7 of the City Charter.
In light of the foregoing recitals, which the Council hereby makes and adopts as
determinations and findings, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. The City Council hereby repeals the Colorado Plumbing Code and
adopts the 2024 International Plumbing Code as amended by this Ordinance.
Section 2. Section 5-125 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
repealed and reenacted to read as follows:
Sec. 5-125. Adoption of standards.
Pursuant to the power and authority conferred on the City Council by Colorado Revised
Statutes Section 31-16-202 and Article II, Section 7 of the Charter, the City Council has
adopted the 2024 International Plumbing Code (2024 IPC) published by the International
Code Council, second printing (May 2024), as amended by the City, which shall have the
same force and effect as though set forth in full herein. The subject matter of the 2024
International Plumbing Code includes comprehensive provisions and standards
regulating the installation, alteration or repair of plumbing and drainage systems in the
City, for the purpose of protecting public health, safety, and general welfare. As provided
in the 2024 International Plumbing Code, Appendices are not adopted except as
expressly set forth in § 5-126.
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Section 3. Section 5-126 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
repealed and reenacted to read as follows:
Sec. 5-126. Amendments and deletions to the 2024 International Plumbing Code.
The 2024 International Plumbing Code adopted in § 5-125 is amended as follows:
1. Section 101.1 Title is amended to read as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Plumbing Code of the City of
Fort Collins, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
2. Section 102.8 Referenced codes and standards is amended to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced
in this code shall be those that are listed in Section 101.4 of the adopted
International Building Code, entitled “Referenced Codes”, and shall be considered
as part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such
reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.8.1 and 102.8.2.
3. Section 103 CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY is deleted in its entirety and
replaced with the following:
SECTION 103 CODE ADMINISTRATION
103.1 Entity charged with code administration. The entity charged with code
administration shall be as determined in accordance with Section 103 of the
adopted International Building Code, entitled “CODE ADMINISTRATION.”
4. Section 105.2 Exempt work is amended to read as follows:
105.2 Exempt work. The following work shall be exempt from the requirement for
a permit:
1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe provided,
however, that if any concealed trap, drainpipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe
becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same
with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit
shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.
2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures,
and the repair and replacement of garbage disposal units and dishwashers
directly connected to the sanitary sewer system, including the necessary
replacement of all tail pipes and traps, or the repair, maintenance, and
replacement of sinks, faucets, drains, showers, tubs, and toilets, provided that
such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of
valves or pipes.
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Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to
grant authorization for any work to be done in violation of the provisions of this
code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
5. SECTION 108 FEES is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
SECTION 108 FEES
108.1 Fees. All items relating to fees shall be as specified in Section 109 of the
adopted International Building Code, entitled “FEES.”
108.2 Work commencing before permit issuance. All items related to work
commencing before permit issuance shall be made pursuant to the applicable
provisions of Section 109.2 of the adopted International Building Code.
6. SECTION 112 MEANS OF APPEAL is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the
following:
SECTION 112 MEANS OF APPEALS
112.1 General. Appeals of decisions, determinations and interpretations of this
code shall be made pursuant to the applicable provisions of Section 113 of the
adopted International Building Code, entitled “MEANS OF APPEALS.”
7. SECTION 113 BOARD OF APPEALS is deleted in its entirety.
8. Section 114.4 Violation Penalties is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the
following:
114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or
fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who alters or repairs a
building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or
directive of the code official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions
of this code, commits a civil infraction and is subject to the provisions contained in
§ 1-15(f) of the City Code. Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed a
separate offense.
9. SECTION 202 GENERAL DEFINITIONS is amended to modify, or add, in
alphabetical order, the following definitions:
. . .
CODE OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the
administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative.
The term code official is interchangeable with the term building official.
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. . .
DIRECT SUPERVISION. Direct supervision means that the supervising licensed
master plumber, journeyman plumber, or residential plumber is physically present
at the same physical addresses listed on the permits and where the apprentice is
working or no more than five minutes distance from the apprentice.
. . .
FIXTURE DRAIN. That portion of a plumbing drainage system that connects the
trap drain to any other drain pipe receiving the discharge from one or more
plumbing fixtures.
. . .
GRAYWATER. Wastewater that, before being treated or combined with other
wastewater, is collected from fixtures within residential, commercial, or industrial
buildings or institutional facilities for the purpose of being put to beneficial uses.
Sources of graywater are limited to discharges from bathroom and laundry room
sinks, bathtubs, showers, and laundry machines. Graywater does not include the
wastewater from toilets, urinals, kitchen sinks, dishwashers, or non-laundry utility
sinks.
. . .
RECLAIMED WATER. Domestic wastewater that has received secondary
treatment by a domestic wastewater treatment works (centralized system or a
localized system) and such additional treatment as to enable the wastewater to
meet the standards for approved uses.
. . .
TRAP DRAIN. That portion of horizontal piping between the weir of a trap and the
point where it intersects with the vent serving that same trap (trap arm).
. . .
10. Section 305.1 Protection against contact is deleted in its entirety and replaced
with the following:
305.1 Protection against contact. Piping except for cast iron, ductile iron, and
galvanized steel shall not be placed in direct contact with steel framing members.
Piping shall not be placed in direct contact with concrete or cinder walls and floors,
other masonry, and corrosive soil. Where sheathing is used to prevent direct
contact, the sheathing shall have a thickness of not less than 0.025 inch (0.64
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mm). Where sheathing protects piping that penetrates concrete or masonry walls
or floors, the sheathing shall be installed in a manner that allows movement of the
piping within the sheathing.
11. Section 308.5 Interval of support is amended to read as follows:
308.5 Interval of support. Pipe shall be supported in accordance with Table
308.5(1). Hanger support rods shall be sized in accordance with Table 308.5(2).
Exception: The interval of support for piping systems designed to provide for
expansion/contraction shall conform to the engineered design in accordance
with Section 316.1.
12. TABLE 308.5 HANGER SPACING is amended to read as follows:
TABLE 308.5(1) HANGER SPACING
PIPING MATERIAL MAXIMUM HORIZONTAL
SPACING (feet)
MAXIMUM VERTICAL
SPACING (feet)
. . . . . . . . .
13. A new TABLE 308.5(2) HANGER ROD SIZE is added to read as follows:
TABLE 308.5(2) HANGER ROD SIZE
Pipe and Tube Size Rod Size
½” – 4” 3/8”
5” – 8” ½”
10” – 12” 5/8”
14. Section 308.7.1 Location is amended to read as follows:
308.7.1 Location. For pipe sizes greater than 4 inches (102 mm), restraints
shall be provided for drain pipes utilizing mechanical joints at all changes in
direction and at all changes in diameter greater than two pipe sizes. Braces,
blocks, rodding and other suitable methods as specified by the coupling
manufacturer shall be utilized.
15. Section 308.9 Parallel water distribution systems is amended to read as
follows:
308.9 Parallel water distribution systems. Piping bundles for manifold systems
shall be supported in accordance with Table 308.5(1). Support at changes in
direction shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Where hot
water piping is bundled with cold water piping, hot water piping shall be insulated
in accordance with Section 607.5.
16. Section 312.1 Required tests is amended to read as follows:
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312.1 Required tests. The permit holder shall make the applicable tests
prescribed in Sections 312.2 through 312.11 to determine compliance with the
provisions of this code. The permit holder shall give reasonable advance notice to
the code official when the plumbing work is ready for tests. The equipment,
material, power and labor necessary for the inspection and test shall be furnished
by the permit holder and he or she shall be responsible for determining that the
work will withstand the test pressure prescribed in the following tests. Plumbing
system piping shall be tested with either water or by air.
17. Section 312.3 Drainage and vent air test is amended to read as follows:
312.3 Drainage and vent air test. An air test shall be made by forcing air into the
system until there is a uniform gauge pressure of 5 psi (34.5 kPa) or sufficient to
balance a 10-inch (254 mm) column of mercury. This pressure shall be held for a
test period of not less than 15 minutes. Any adjustments to the test pressure
required because of changes in am bient temperatures or the seating of gaskets
shall be made prior to the beginning of the test period.
18. Section 312.4 Drainage and vent vacuum test is deleted in its entirety.
19. Section 312.6 Water supply system test is amended to read as follows:
312.6 Water supply system test. Upon completion of a section of or the entire
water supply system, the system, or portion completed, shall be tested and proved
tight under a water pressure not less than the working pressure of the system; or
by an air test of not less than 50 psi (344 kPa). This pressure shall be held for not
less than 15 minutes. The water utilized for tests shall be obtained from a potable
source of supply. The required tests shall be performed in accordance with this
section and Section 111.
20. Section 312.10 Shower liner test is deleted in its entirety.
21. Section 312.11.2 Testing is amended to read as follows:
312.11.2 Testing. Reduced pressure principle, double check, pressure
vacuum breaker, reduced pressure detector fire protection, double check
detector fire protection, and spill-resistant vacuum breaker backflow preventer
assemblies and hose connection backflow preventers shall be tested at the
time of installation, immediately after repairs or relocation and at least annually
by a certified cross connection control technician, in accordance with the
applicable testing procedures associated with each specific certifying agen cy.
When applicable, the testing procedure shall be performed for the identified
backflow prevention assembly in its entirety in accordance with one of the
following applicable standards: ASSE 5013, ASSE 5015, ASSE 5020, ASSE
5047, ASSE 5048, ASSE 5052, ASSE 5056, CSA B64.10, CSA B64.10.1 or
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the testing procedures provided in the 10th Edition Manual of Cross -
Connection Control from the University of Southern California’s Foundation for
Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.
22. A new SECTION 317 GRAYWATER is added to read as follows:
SECTION 317 GRAYWATER
317.1 General. Graywater use shall comply with Article V, Division 3 of the City
Code and other applicable sections of this code.
23. Section 403.1 Minimum number of fixtures is amended to read as follows:
403.1 Minimum number of fixtures. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided in the
minimum number as shown in Table 403.1, based on the actual use of the building
or space. Uses not shown in Table 403.1 shall be considered individually by the
code official. The number of occupants shall be deter mined by the International
Building Code. Lavatory to water closet or urinal ratios in accordance with Table
403.1 shall be maintained in all restrooms.
24. Section 405.3.2 Public lavatories is amended to read as follows:
405.3.2 Public lavatories. In employee and public toilet facilities, the required
lavatory shall be located in the same room as the required water closet.
Exception: Lavatories located outside a toilet room located within a
classroom serving students from that classroom only. These toilet rooms
and lavatories shall not count toward the total fixture count required by
Table 403.1.
25. Section 410.4 Substitution is amended to read as follows:
410.4 Substitution. Where restaurants or spaces classified as an A2 occupancy
provide drinking water in a container free of charge, drinking fountains shall not be
required in these restaurants and A2 occupancies. In other occupancies where
three or more drinking fountains are required, water dispensers shall be permitted
to be substituted for not more than 50 percent of the required number of drinking
fountains.
26. A new Section 421.7 Shower head location is added to read as follows:
421.7 Shower head location. Showerheads shall be located on the sidewall of
shower compartments or be arranged so the shower head does not discharge
directly at the entrance to the compartment and the bather can adjust the valve
prior to stepping into the shower spray.
Exception: Showers of the roll in type installed in accordance with 2009 ANSI
A117.1.
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27. A new Section 421.8 Shower valve location is added to read as follows:
421.8 Shower valve location. A shower or tub/shower control valve shall be
installed only where the spout and/or shower head discharges into an approved
tub or shower compartment.
Exception: Emergency Showers.
28. Section 425.3 Water closet seats is amended by adding a new exception to read
as follows:
425.3 Water closet seats. Water closets shall be equipped with seats of smooth,
nonabsorbent material. Seats of water closets provided for public or employee
toilet facilities shall be of the hinged open -front type. Integral water closet seats
shall be of the same material as the fixture. Water closet seats shall be sized for
the water closet bowl type.
Exception: Water closets installed in public restrooms for the purpose of
complying with accessible fixtures as required by Section 404 fitted with the
“AXS-Wingman Universal Design Water Closet Seat” having a closed front are
allowed.
29. A new Section 504.6.1 Collection of relief valve discharge is added to read as
follows:
504.6.1 Collection of relief valve discharge. A means shall be provided to
capture the discharge from a relief valve and convey it to the sanitary drainage
system or exterior of the structure either by gravity or a pumped discharge.
Exceptions:
1. Replacements for existing water heaters.
2. Where a water sensing device wired to a normally closed solenoid
valve installed in the water supply piping to the heater is placed within
the water heater drain pan.
30. A new Section 504.6.1.1 Pumped discharge of relief valve collection is added
to read as follows:
504.6.1.1 Pumped discharge of relief valve collection. Pumps used to
discharge the clear water collection of relief valves shall have an operating
temperature equal to or exceeding that of the relief valve discharge
temperature and shall have a gpm rating equal to or greater than the
discharge of the relief valve.
31. Section 504.7 Required pan is amended to read as follows:
504.7 Required pan. Where a storage tank-type water heater or a hot water
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storage tank is installed in a location where water leakage from the tank will cause
damage, the tank shall be installed in a pan constructed of one of the following:
1. Galvanized steel or aluminum of not less than 0.0236 inch (0.6010 mm) in
thickness.
2. Plastic not less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) in thickness.
3. Other approved materials.
A plastic pan installed beneath a gas-fired water heater shall be constructed of
material having a flame spread index of 25 or less and a smoked -developed index
of 450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL723.
Water heaters installed in pans shall comply with Section 314.2.3.2.
Unless the pan is constructed of material having a flame spread index of 25 or less
and a smoke-developed index of 450 or less when tested in accordance with
ASTM E84 or UL 723.
Exception: Replacements for water heaters that did not have a pan previously
installed to code in effect at the time of original installation.
32. Section 603.1 Size of water service pipe is amended to read as follows:
603.1 Size of water service pipe. The water service pipe shall be sized to supply
water to the structure in the quantities and at the pressures required in this code.
The water service pipe shall not be less th an ¾ inch (19.1 mm) in diameter. In
residential occupancies, the water service pipe shall be sized according to
Appendix E.
33. A new Section 603.1.1 Water service line freeze protection is added to read as
follows:
603.1.1 Water service line freeze protection. Water service lines shall be
protected from freezing by being installed 54 inches deep below grade or by
other approved methods.
34. Section 604.1 General is amended to read as follows:
604.1 General. The design of the water distribution system shall conform to
accepted engineering practice. Methods utilized to determine pipe sizes shall be
approved. In residential occupancies, the water distribution system shall be sized
according to Appendix E.
35. Section 604.4 Maximum flow and water consumption and TABLE 604.4
MAXIMUM FLOW RATES AND CONSUMPTION FOR PLUMBING FIXTURES
AND FIXTURE FITTINGS are amended to read as follows, with the exceptions
being deleted in their entirety:
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604.4 Maximum flow and water consumption. The maximum water
consumption flow rates and quantities for all plumbing fixtures and fixture fittings
shall be in accordance with Table 604.4 , and such fixtures and fittings shall be
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense® labeled fixtures, excluding
fixtures and fixture fittings that are not labeled under the WaterSense® program.
T ABLE 604.4 MAXIMUM FLOW RATES AND CONSUMPTION FOR PLUMBING FIXTURES
AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
PLUMBING FIXTURE OR FIXTURE
FITTING
MAXIMUM FLOW RATE OF QUANTITYb
Lavatory faucet, private 0.5 gallon per minute at 60 psi for non-
residential occupancy
1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi for Groups R and I
occupancies
occupancies
Lavatory faucet, public (metering) 0.25 gallon per metering cycle
minimum 10 second cycle setting for water run time
Shower head a,c (includes handheld) 1.8 gallons per minute at 80 psi
2.0 gallons per minute at 80 psi for Groups I and E
occupancies
Sink faucet 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 psi
Urinal 0.5 gallons per flushing cycle
Residential Water closet 1.1 gallons per flushing cycle, with minimum MaP
(solid-waste removal performance threshold) of 600
grams. Dual Flush gallons per flushing cycle:
Average of three flushes (two reduced flushes and
one full flush). 1.28 gallons per flushing cycle water
closet allowed for existing buildings not increasing
the building size.
Commercial Water Closet 1.28 gallons per flushing cycle, with minimum MaP
(solid-waste removal performance threshold) of 600
grams. Dual Flush gallons per flushing cycle:
Average of three flushes (two reduced flushes and
one full flush)
Pre-rinse Spray Valves (food service) Must meet federal Department of Energy
WaterSense® criteria per 10 CFR 431, subpart O
Bar sinks (food service) 2.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi
For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. A hand-held shower spray is a shower head.
b. Consumption tolerances shall be determined from referenced standards.
c. Shower heads shall comply with all requirements for high-efficiency showerheads in ASME A112.18.1-2020/CSA
B125.1
36. Section 605.15.2 Solvent cementing is deleted in its entirety.
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37. Section 608.9.1 Signage required is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the
following:
608.9.1 Signage required.
1. Plumbing fixtures flushed with nonpotable water shall be identified with
signage that reads as follows:
“Nonpotable water is used to flush this fixture. CAUTION: NONPOTABLE
WATER – DO NOT DRINK.”
In addition to the required wordage, the pictograph shown in Figure 608.8.1
shall appear on the required signage.
2. A permanent warning sign must also be visible at all fixtures from which
graywater is collected. The sign must state that:
“WATER FROM THIS FIXTURE IS REUSED. CHEMICALS, EXCRETA,
PETROLEUM OILS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MUST NOT BE
DISPOSED DOWN THIS DRAIN.”
3. For both types of fixtures indicated in subsections 1.2(E)(1)(b)(1)(i) and (ii),
the words shall be legibly and indelibly printed on a tag or sign constructed
of corrosion-resistant waterproof material or shall be indelibly printed on the
fixture. The letters of the words shall be not less than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) in
height and in colors in contrast to the background on which they are applied.
38. Section 608.9.2 Distribution pipe labeling and marking is deleted in its entirety
and replaced with the following:
608.9.2 Distribution pipe labeling and marking. Nonpotable distribution
piping shall be purple in color or the piping shall be installed with a purple
identification tape or wrap the entire length of the piping and shall be
embossed, or integrally stamped or marked, with the words: “CAUTION:
NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK”.
39. A new Section 608.17.2.1 Essentially nontoxic fluid conditioning chemical is
added to read as follows:
608.17.2.1 Essentially nontoxic fluid conditioning chemical. When the
conditioning chemical introduced is an essentially nontoxic transfer fluid the
potable supplier to the boiler shall, at a minimum, be equipped with a backflow
preventer with an intermediate atmospheric vent complying with ASSE 1012 or
CSA B64.3.
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40. A new Section 608.17.11 Connection to graywater system or reclaimed water
system is added to read as follows:
608.17.11 Connection to graywater system or reclaimed water system.
The potable water system connection to a graywater system must be protected
against backflow by an air gap or reduced pressure principle backflow
prevention assembly.
41. Section 705.10.2 Solvent cementing is deleted in its entirety.
42. Section 706.3 Installation of fittings is amended to read as follows:
. . .
Exception: Back-to-back water closet connections to double sanitary tees
shall be permitted where the horizontal developed length between the outlet of
the water closet and the connection to the double sanita ry tee pattern is 18
inches (457 mm) or greater. Fixture crosses will not be required to meet this
exception.
43. TABLE 706.3 FITTINGS FOR CHANGE IN DIRECTION is amended by deleting
footnotes a and b:
TABLE 706.3 FITTINGS FOR CHANGE IN DIRECTION
TYPE OF FITTING
PATTERN
CHANGE IN DIRECTION
Horizontal to
vertical
Vertical to
horizontal
Horizontal to
horizontal
. . . . . . . . . . . .
Quarter bend X X X
Short sweep X X X
. . . . . . . . . . . .
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
c. For a limitation on double sanitary tees, see Section 706.3.
44. Section 708.1.3 Building drain and building sewer junction is amended to read
as follows:
708.1.3 Building drain and building sewer junction. The junction of the
building drain and the building sewer shall be served by a cleanout that is
located at the junction or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the developed length of
piping upstream of the junction. For the requirements of this section, the
removal of the water closet shall not be required to provide cleanout access.
When the cleanout is installed at the junction of the building drain and building
sewer, it shall be an approved two way fitting with a single riser not to exceed
4 feet in depth or a two riser cleanout using back to back combination fittings
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or equal of schedule 40 material.
45. A new Section 802.1.8 Domestic dishwashing machines is added to read as
follows:
802.1.8 Domestic dishwashing machines. Domestic dishwashing machines
may be connected to a separately trapped stand pipe provided with an air break
(with drain hose secured to the underside of the counter top) or air gap as
shown in the illustration below. Refer to Section 409.4 for additional waste
connections.
46. Section 802.3 Installation is amended to read as follows:
802.3 Installation. Indirect waste piping shall discharge through an air gap or air
break into a waste receptor. Waste receptors shall be trapped and vented and shall
connect to the building drainage system.
Exception: Where a waste receptor receives only clearwater waste and does
not directly connect to a sanitary drainage system, the receptor shall not require
a trap.
47. Section 802.4 Waste receptors is amended by adding a new exception to read
as follows:
802.4 Waste receptors. For other than hub drains that receive only clear-water
waste and standpipes, a removable strainer or basket shall cover the outlet of
waste receptors. Waste receptors shall not be installed in concealed spaces.
Waste receptors shall not be installed in plenums, crawl spaces, attics, interstitial
spaces above ceilings and below floors. Ready access shall be provided to waste
receptors.
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Exception: Where equipment is installed in a crawl space, a waste receptor
shall be allowed with an approved backwater valve installed.
48. Section 903.1.1 Roof extension unprotected is amended to read as follows:
903.1.1 Roof extension unprotected. Open vent pipes that extend through a
roof shall be terminated not less than 6 inches (mm) above the roof.
49. Section 903.2 Frost closure is deleted in its entirety.
50. Section 912.1 Horizontal wet vent permitted is amended by adding a new
exception to read as follows:
912.1 Horizontal wet vent permitted. Any combination of fixtures within two
bathroom groups located on the same floor level is permitted to be vented by a
horizontal wet vent. The wet vent shall be considered to be the vent for the fixtures
and shall extend from the connection of the dry vent along the direction of the flow
in the drain pipe to the most downstream fixture drain connection to the horizontal
branch drain. Each wet-vented fixture drain shall connect independently to the
horizontal wet vent. Only the fixtures within the bathroom groups shall connect to
the wet-vented horizontal branch drain. Any additional fixtures shall discharge
downstream of the horizontal wet vent.
Exception: Fixtures other than those considered to be bathroom group
fixtures, of equivalent drainage fixture units, may be included in the wet vented
section provided the total number of drainage fixture units does not exceed the
total number included in two bathroom groups and the fixtures not considered
bathroom fixtures are valued at one drainage fixture unit or less.
51. Section 1002.1 Fixture traps is amended by adding a new exception #5 to read
as follows:
. . .
Exceptions:
. . .
5. Trench and floor drains connected to a sand oil interceptor need not be
individually trapped provided the drain piping from the trench or floor drains is
turned down after entering the interceptor so the discharge point is a minimum
of 4 inches below the standing water level of the interceptor.
52. Section 1003.1 Where required is amended by adding a new exception to read
as follows:
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1003.1 Where required. Interceptors and separators shall be provided to prevent
the discharge of oil, grease, sand and other substances harmful or hazardous to
the public sewer, the private sewage system or the sewage treatment plant or
processes.
Exception: Where special regulations exist by the local wastewater and/or
sanitation district into which the grease trap or interceptor effluent is transported
and/or treated. These regulations may supersede this requirement.
53. Section 1003.3.2 Food waste disposers restriction is amended to read as
follows:
1003.3.2 Food waste disposers restriction. A food waste disposer shall not
discharge to a grease interceptor, except when using a gravity interceptor
equal to or greater than 500 gallon capacity.
54. Section 1101.3 Prohibited drainage is amended to read as follows:
1101.3 Prohibited drainage. Storm water shall not be drained into sewers
intended for sewage only. Storm water from roof drains shall not discharge over
public walkways except when an approved grated trough or trench drain sized to
accept the calculated discharge is installed in the walkway. The discharge shall be
diverted vertically from a height not greater than 12 inches to the grate.
Exception: Secondary drains.
55. Section 1301.2.2 Filtration Required is amended to read as follows:
1301.2.2 Filtration required. Nonpotable water utilized for water closet and
urinal flushing applications shall be filtered by a 100 -micron (0.1 mm) or finer
filter.
Exception: Reclaimed water sources shall not be required to comply with
these requirements. Graywater treatment systems installed in accordance
with Article V, Division 3 of City Code do not need to meet additional filtration
requirements.
56. A new Section 1301.3.1 Distribution pipe labeling and marking is added to read
as follows:
1301.3.1. Distribution pipe labeling and marking. Nonpotable distribution
piping shall comply with Section 608.9.2.
57. A new Section 1301.3.2 Signage required graywater treatment works is added
to read as follows:
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1301.3.2 Signage required graywater treatment works. For each room that
contains graywater treatment works components, a sign that says “CAUTION
GRAYWATER TREATMENT WORKS, DO NOT DRINK, DO NOT CONNECT
TO THE POTABLE DRINKING W ATER SYSTEM. NOTICE: CONTACT
BUILDING MANAGEMENT BEFORE PERFORMING ANY WORK ON THIS
WATER SYSTEM" must be posted on any door providing entrance to the room.
58. A new Figure 1301.4 TYPICAL GRAYWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM is added
to read as follows:
Figure 1301.4 TYPICAL GRAYWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM
(This figure is typical only, not a schematic)
59. A new Figure 1301.5 TYPICAL GRAYWATER SYSTEM FOR TOILET AND
URINAL FLUSHING is added to read as follows:
Figure 1301.5 TYPICAL GRAYWATER SYSTEM FOR TOILET AND URINAL
FLUSHING
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60. A new Figure 1301.6 TYPICAL GRAYWATER SYSTEM FOR DISBURSED
SUBSURFACE IRRIGATION SYSTEM is added to read as follows:
Figure 1301.6 TYPICAL GRAYWATER SYSTEM FOR DISBURSED
SUBSURFACE IRRIGATION SYSTEM
61. A new Figure 1301.7 TYPICAL GRAYWATER SYSTEM FOR MULCH BASIN
SUBSURFACE IRRIGATION is added to read as follows:
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Figure 1301.7 TYPICAL GRAYWATER SYSTEM FOR MULCH BASIN
SUBSURFACE IRRIGATION
62. Section 1301.9.2 Materials is amended by adding an exception to read as follows:
1301.9.2 Materials. Where collected on-site, water shall be collected in an
approved tank constructed of durable, nonabsorbent and corrosion-resistant
materials. The storage tank shall be constructed of materials compatible with
any disinfection systems used to treat water upstream of the tank and with any
systems used to maintain water quality in the tank. Wooden storage tanks that
are not equipped with a makeup water source shall be provided with a flexible
liner.
Exception: Tanks are not required if the graywater use is comprised of only
subsurface irrigation and flows into a mulch basin system, where the mulch
basin volume is three times the anticipated average daily flow.
63. Section 1301.9.5 Overflow is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the
following:
Section 1301.9.5 Overflow. The storage tank shall be equipped with an
overflow pipe having a diameter not less than that shown in Table 606.5.4. The
overflow pipe shall be protected from insects or vermin. The overflow drain shall
not be equipped with a shutoff valve and shall discharge into the sanitary sewer
either directly, or indirectly with a trap in the drain line to keep odors from
escaping the tank. A cleanout shall be provided on each ove rflow pipe in
accordance with Section 708.
64. Section 1301.9.8 Draining of tanks is amended to read as follows:
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1301.9.8 Draining of tanks. Tanks shall be provided with a means of emptying
the contents for the purpose of service or cleaning. Tanks shall be dr ained by
using a pump or by a drain located at the lowest point in the tank. The tank
drain pipe shall discharge into the sanitary sewer either directly, or indirectly
with a trap in the drain line to keep odors from escaping the tank and shall not
be smaller in size than specified in Table 606.5.7. Not less than one cleanout
shall be provided on each drain pipe in accordance with Section 708.
65. Section 1301.11 Trenching requirements for nonpotable water piping is
deleted in its entirety.
66. Section 1301.12 Outdoor outlet access is deleted in its entirety.
67. Section 1302.1 General is amended to read as follows:
1302.1 General. The provisions of ASTM E2635 and Section 1302 shall govern
the construction, installation, alteration and repair of on-site nonpotable water
reuse systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of on -site
sources of nonpotable water as permitted by the jurisdiction. All plumbing systems
utilizing nonpotable water reuse systems shall have a reduced pressure backflow
preventer device installed at the water service entrance immediately downstream
of the building water service shut off valve.
68. Section 1302.6.1 Graywater used for fixture flushing is amended to read as
follows:
1302.6.1 Graywater used for fixture flushing. Graywater used for flushing
water closets and urinals shall be disinfected and treated by an on -site water
reuse treatment system complying with NSF 350. Graywater used for toilet and
urinal flushing shall be dyed with blue or green food grade vegetable dye a nd
be visibly distinct from potable water.
69. A new Section 1302.7.3 Overflow is added to read as follows:
1302.7.3 Overflow. Storage tank for on-site nonpotable systems must include
an overflow line without a shut off valve. The overflow line shall be connected
to the sanitary sewer indirectly. The overflow line must be the same or larger
diameter line than the tank influent line. The overflow line connected indi rectly
must be trapped to prevent the escape of gas vapors from the tank.
70. A new Section 1302.7.4 Venting is added to read as follows:
1302.7.4 Venting. Storage tank for on-site nonpotable systems must be
vented. Indoor tanks must be vented to the atmosph ere outside the building or
connected to the plumbing vent system.
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71. A new Section 1302.7.5 Tank drains is added to read as follows:
1302.7.5 Tank drains. Storage tank for on-site nonpotable systems must
include a valved drain. The drain shall be indirectly connected to the sanitary
sewer. The tank drainline must be the same or larger diameter line than the
tank influent line.
72. Section 1302.8.1 Bypass valve is amended to read as follows:
1302.8.1 System bypass. One three-way diverter valve listed and labeled to
NSF 50 or other approved device shall be installed on collection piping
upstream of any graywater treatment equipment, as applicable, to divert
untreated on-site reuse sources to the sanitary sewer to allow servicing and
inspection of the system. Bypass valves shall be installed downstream of fixture
traps and vent connections. Bypass valves shall be marked to indicate the
direction of flow, connection graywater treatment works, storage tank and
graywater subsurface irrigation systems. Bypass valves shall be installed in
accessible locations. Two shutoff valves shall not be installed to serve as a
bypass valve. In addition to the bypass valve a series of drainage fittings shall
be installed in the collection piping upstream of the bypass valve in a
configuration that will allow the graywater from the plumbing fixtures to
automatically flow directly into the sanitary sewer system in the event the filter
or other parts of the collection system become clogged to the point of not
allowing the effluent free flow through the system. The overflow line connected
to the sanitary sewer shall be equipped with a backwater valve.
73. SECTION 1303 NONPOTABLE RAINWATER COLLECTION AND
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS is deleted in its entirety.
74. CHAPTER 14 SUBSURFACE GRAYWATER SOIL ABSORPTION SYSTEMS is
deleted in its entirety.
75. Appendix E Sizing of Water Piping System is adopted in its entirety, and is
amended to read as follows:
. . .
E102.2.1 Fixture demand. Estimate the supply demand of the building main and
the principal branches and risers of the system by totaling the corresponding
demand from the applicable parts of Table E103.3(2) and Table E103.3(2)(a).
Exception: For apartment houses and vacation timeshares, the supply
demand for fixtures and appliances listed in Table E103.3(2)(a) shall be
estimated using the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical
Officials Water Demand Calculator. The supply demand for other fixtures in
these occupancies shall be estimated using Tables E103.3(2) and
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E103.3(3). The peak flow rates shall be added together, and the total added
to the continuous demand.
Note: The requirements listed in this exception are based on the
technical paper entitled “Peak Water Demand Study,” published by
the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
on October 2024 (IAPMO Study 4-2-24). Both the Water Demand
Calculator and a copy of this technical paper are available for
download at: https://www.iapmo.org/water-demand-calculator/.
. . .
TABLE E103.3(2)(a) DESIGN FLOW RATES FOR USE WITH THE
WATER DEMAND CALCULATOR IN RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES
FIXTURE AND APPLIANCES MAXIMUM DESIGN FLOW RATE
Bar Sink 1.5 gallons per minute
Bathtub 5.5 gallons per minute
Bidet 2.0 gallons per minute
Clothes Washer 3.5 gallons per minute
Combination Bath/Shower 5.5 gallons per minute
Dishwasher 1.3 gallons per minute
Kitchen 1.8 gallons per minute
Laundry and Bar Sink Faucets 1.8 gallons per minute
Lavatory Faucet 1.5 gallons per minute
Shower, per head 1.8 gallons per minute
Water Closet, 128 GPF, Gravity Tank 1.1 gallons per flush
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s.
. . .
Section 4. The codifier of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby directed
to amend all existing cross references in the City Code and the Land Use Code in
accordance with the provisions of this ordinance.
Section 5. The City Attorney and the City Clerk are hereby authorized to modify
the formatting and to make such other amendments to this Ordinance as necessary to
facilitate publication in the Fort Collins City Code; provided, however, that such
modifications and amendments shall not change the substance of the Code provisions.
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Introduced, considered favorably on first reading on December 2, 2025, and
approved on second reading for final passage on December 16, 2025.
______________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
City Clerk
Effective Date: December 26, 2025
Approving Attorney: Madelene Shehan
Exhibit: Exhibit A – Notice of Publication
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE is hereby given of a public hearing to be held before the Council of the City of
Fort Collins,Colorado,on the 2nd day of December,2025,at 6:00 p.m.,or as soon thereafter as
the matter may come on for hearing,in the Council Chambers at the City Hall,300 LaPorte
Avenue, Fort Collins,Colorado for the purpose of considering the adoption of ordinances that adopt
by reference the 2024 International Building Code,2024 International Residential Code,2024
International Energy Conservation Code,2024 International Mechanical Code,2024
International Fuel Gas Code,2024 International Existing Building Code,2024 International
Swimming Pool and Spa Code,2024 International Property Maintenance Code,and the 2024
International Plumbing Code,each promulgated by the International Code Council,the 2023
National Electrical Code and the 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code,together with local
amendments.
Not less than one (I)copy of said Codes has been,and now is on file in the Office of the
City Clerk of the City of Fort Collins and is available for public inspection.
The purpose of adopting the International Building Code,International Residential Code,
International Energy Conservation Code,International Mechanical Code,International Fuel Gas
Code,International Existing Building Code,International Swimming Pool and Spa Code,
International Property Maintenance Code,International Plumbing Code,National Electrical Code, and
the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code,with local amendments by said ordinances is to provide for
protection of public health,safety and welfare of the City and its residents.
Individuals who wish to address Council via remote public participation can do so through
Zoom at https://zoom.us/i/98241416497.(The link and instructions are also posted
www.fc ov.com/councilcomments.Individuals participating in the Zoom session should watch
the meeting through that site,and not via FCTV,due to the streaming delay and possible audio
interference.
The City of Fort Collins will make reasonable accommodations for access to City services,
programs and activities,and will make special communication arrangements for persons with
disabilities.Please call (970)221-6515 (V/TDD:Dial 711 for Relay Colorado)for assistance.
This notice is given and published by order of the City of Fort Collins,Colorado.
Dated this /4 day of __________2025.
~
City ~rk
Upon request,the City of Fort Collins will provide language access services for individuals who have
limited English proficiency,or auxiliary aids and services for individuals with disabilities,to access
City services,programs and activities.Contact (970) 221-65 15 (VITDD:Dial 711 for Relay
Colorado)for assistance.Please provide 48 hours advance notice when possible.
A peticiOn,Ia Ciudad de Fort Collins proporcionará servicios de acceso a idiomas para personas que
no dominan el idioma inglés,o ayudas y servicios auxiliares para personas con discapacidad,para
que puedan acceder a los servicios,programas y actividades de Ia Ciudad.Para asistencia,llame al
970.221.6515 (V/TDD:Marque 711 para Relay Colorado).Por favor proporcione 48 horas de aviso
previo cuando sea posible.
EXHIBIT A TO ORDINANCE NO. 219, 2025